Her Graceful War Song novel Chapter 1361

As dawn broke, Adrian led them to the Glimmering Tower.

It was then that Carissa realized they weren't the only ones who had arrived—many guild leaders and elders were present as well. Even Violet and Bun's mentor had come.

When Violet spotted her mentor Conrad, she gasped in surprise and rushed toward him. "Sage Conrad, what brings you here? You didn't even send word beforehand!"

Conrad smiled warmly as he looked at his beloved apprentice, indulgence in his voice. "I heard you were guarding the capital. Naturally, I had to come and lend you a hand."

"Sage Conrad, you're too kind. I'll get another villa for you once we're done here," Violet said, linking her arm with his, grinning widely.

Conrad scowled lightly, feigning annoyance. "Why would I need more villas from you? No more, I tell you. However, I did hear about a hot spring at Solitude Peak. I thought of buying it, so your fellow apprentices can soak and strengthen their bodies."

Violet nodded enthusiastically. "I'll buy it!"

Everyone looked at Conrad with envious eyes. Most mentors fed and clothed their apprentices, sometimes even providing them with fine weapons.

But Conrad? He was living a life off his apprentice's generosity.

And he was doing so with such shameless ease!

-

As the morning light filtered through the windows, Hayden stepped out of his study. Having stayed up all night, his face looked worn and tired—after all, he was getting older and couldn't handle sleepless nights.

Seeing "Gordon" still standing guard at the door, he let out a short laugh. "Returned defeated, I see."

Gordon lowered his gaze. "Your Highness, will you be heading out today?"

"No, go back to your duties," Hayden replied flatly.

Yet, Nicholas didn't leave. He stood steadfastly beside him.

Hayden's gaze turned cold. "If you have questions, ask them."

Nicholas lifted his head. "Did you already know that Adrian and the others have come to the capital? Who passed on the news? It doesn't matter if you don't speak—it'll come out in the end."

The Shadow Guard who had been watching over Hayden last night had vanished, and the faint scent of blood still lingered in the study. There were no signs of a struggle, suggesting a quick, fatal blow.

Nicholas had a good idea of who might be behind it.